Gemotions

The coffee shop sign – "Last Day!" – was a physical blow. Thomas stood frozen, the familiar scent of roasting beans now a mocking perfume. He’d come here every morning for a decade, always the same black coffee, always the same chat with the barista, Liam.

He took a step towards the door, then stopped. He couldn't seem to make himself go inside. The world seemed to wobble slightly. What about Liam? What about the conversations, the shared jokes, the quiet moments of connection? The thought of it all disappearing created a void inside him.

He reached for his phone, then stopped again. He didn't know how to express the confusing whirlwind of feelings. He simply stood there, on the sidewalk, the morning air suddenly heavy, the world around him a kaleidoscope of unfamiliar shapes.